Laskey retires after working in the front office for 21 years
By Gabriela Todaro
Walking through the same doors everyday, and seeing many classes come and go, Josephine Laskey has decided to retire after 21 years.
Laskey is an administrative assistant and she said she records and tracks students’ attendance and works to create a friendly environment for students and for visitors.
Principals Administrative Assistant Andrea Cabral said she has known Laskey for 20 years and has worked with her for eight years. Cabral said Laskey has a great sense of humor and they have laughed a lot over the years.
“More importantly, she is a caring and supportive co-worker and friend,” Cabral said.
After over 20 years Laskey has learned a lot in her time here and has many pieces of invaluable advice to give.
“We are all important, no matter what role we play in society,” Laskey said. “Everyone deserves to be respected and treated with kindness.”
Cabral said Laskey was the person who trained her when she started in the front office in 2003. She said that Laskey taught her the ropes of the front office, procedures, phone system among other things.
Judith Price said she worked with Laskey for 18 years. She said that she’s sad that Laskey is leaving but she said she has the memories that they shared together, their struggles together and how they could count on each other no matter what.
“Mrs. Laskey is a kind, intelligent, sophisticated woman. She has a good sense of humor and is very helpful when working with visitors as well as co-workers,” Price said. “She is also a fashionista!”
Laskey has many good memories at Winnacunnet. She said one of her favorite things about her time here is getting to know all the teachers and students. She enjoys learning from them and she will miss the camaraderie among her coworkers.
“I will never forget the time when some classrooms were held in trailers,” Laskey said. “I had to go out to take attendance when it was snowing.”
Laskey said she’s going to miss everyone and everything about the school. Although she is not going to miss waking up at the crack of dawn and hearing phones while she’s sleeping.
“Jo genuinely cares about the students here at WHS, as well as the staff. She is reliable and always willing to learn something new. I'm so happy for Jo and know that she will, ultimately, love the retired life,” Cabral said. “But, the front office will not be the same without her.”
Price said that Laskey is dedicated, caring, and a strong woman who will be missed.
After retirement Laskey said she plans on spending more time with her granddaughter and their cottage in Maine.